Google has confirmed that all Google Pixel Buds will get access to the Gemini LLM as part of an update to how AI assistants work on Bluetooth earbuds.
In a mass email sent to Pixel Buds owners, Google has gone into detail on this upcoming change to how Gemini and the Assistant will work moving forward. The “Hey Google” activation phrase is remaining, but it is no longer a separate setting. In future, it will simply control the default AI assistant on your Android phone or tablet:
The Hey Google & Voice Match setting on your connected Android phone or tablet will now control whether you can use “Hey Google” on your Assistant-enabled headphones. To use “Hey Google” and receive hands-free help on your headphones with your voice, turn on “Hey Google” from Assistant settings on your connected Android phone or tablet.
At present, previous-generation Pixel Buds can only access the Google Assistant when using voice controls or on-device earbud touch controls. This change will make it easier to access Gemini with your Pixel Buds, Pixel Buds A-series, or Pixel Buds Pro. It also brings some feature parity with the recently released Pixel Buds Pro 2, which goes a step further with Gemini Live integration as part of an extensive feature set.
Google goes on to state that some “features may work differently” on your Pixel Buds when using Gemini over the Google Assistant. After setting up you will need to unlock and connect to your earbuds while wearing them. One a connection is established, you can get personalized responses without having to unlock your phone each time. If you remove your Buds or disconnect from your phone personalized responses will cease. You are able to adjust this setting with the “Only require one unlock” function that you can change using this guide.
This change is also limited to countries where Gemini is currently available. This means that some regions will still only have access to the Assistant for the foreseeable future. Google only states that Gemini on Pixel Buds is “coming soon” with no details on if this will require a firmware update for existing Bluetooth earbuds.
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